Craving a deliciously cheesy, crispy appetizer? This stuffed ziti fritta recipe is sure to satisfy! With creamy cheese-filled ziti pasta that’s breaded and fried to golden perfection, each bite delivers a mouthwatering crunch with a gooey center. It’s inspired by the well-loved appetizer at Olive Garden but easy to make at home.
This stuffed ziti fritta olive garden recipe is also fantastic if you’re in the mood for fun finger foods—pair it with a side of marinara or ranch dip for the ultimate treat. And if you’re looking for other crunchy delights, don’t miss my Pretzel Sticks recipe, another irresistible snack option. Get ready to bring restaurant-style flavor right to your kitchen!
The Origins of Olive Garden’s Stuffed Ziti Fritta
Olive garden ziti fritta has become an iconic appetizer for fans of Italian-inspired cuisine, and it’s easy to see why. With a unique combination of pasta, cheese, and a crispy shell, it brings together the flavors of a pasta dish in snackable form.
Traditionally served with marinara or Alfredo dipping sauce, this ziti fritta is a favorite for those who love comforting, cheesy flavors with a delightful crunch. Now, with this recipe, you can recreate that classic taste right at home and impress family and friends with a dish that’s just as satisfying as the restaurant version.
Ingredients Used to Make Stuffed Ziti Fritta
- 12 oz ziti pasta, cooked and drained
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 1/2 cups breadcrumbs
- Oil, for frying
How to Make Stuffed Ziti Fritta
Preparation Time: 20 mins
Cooking Time: 10 mins
Inactive Time: 5 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Author: Jen Sharpin | So Damn Delish
Yield: 4-6 servings
Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Method: Frying
- Prepare Filling: In a bowl, combine ricotta, mozzarella, parmesan, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Stuff Ziti: Fill each ziti pasta piece with the cheese mixture using a piping bag or small spoon.
- Bread the Ziti: Coat stuffed ziti in flour, dip in beaten eggs, then roll in breadcrumbs.
- Fry: Heat oil in a skillet and fry ziti until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
Serve your stuffed ziti fritta with marinara or Alfredo sauce for dipping and enjoy!
Notes
- You can make these ahead and freeze them; just fry directly from frozen.
- For a healthier option, bake at 400°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Use a piping bag for easier filling.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Perfecting the Frying Technique for Golden Ziti Fritta
Frying these ziti fritta to perfection is all about the oil temperature. Make sure your oil is at a steady 350°F, which ensures the coating turns crispy without overcooking the filling. Fry in small batches, giving each piece room to crisp evenly.
This technique prevents the cheese from leaking out and keeps each ziti perfectly golden. With a little patience, you’ll have restaurant-quality bites right from your kitchen.
Make It Your Own with Creative Sauces
Traditional marinara is a perfect match for this stuffed ziti fritta, but there are plenty of other options to try. For a creamy contrast, pair it with Alfredo sauce or even a garlic aioli. If you want a bolder flavor, experiment with a spicy arrabbiata or pesto dip. Switching up the sauces gives you endless ways to enjoy these crispy pasta bites with friends and family.
Craving a delicious snack? Try this stuffed ziti fritta recipe from So Damn Delish! Perfectly crispy and filled with cheesy goodness, it’s a surefire hit for any gathering.
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How to Make Stuffed Ziti Fritta Inspired by Olive Garden
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Inactive Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings 1x
- Category: Snacks & Apps
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Description
Enjoy this stuffed ziti fritta by So Damn Delish! Creamy, cheesy stuffed pasta with a crispy coating makes for the perfect appetizer or indulgent snack.
Ingredients
- 12 oz ziti pasta, cooked and drained
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 1/2 cups breadcrumbs
- Oil, for frying
Instructions
- Mix cheeses, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stuff ziti with cheese mixture.
- Coat in flour, dip in eggs, then breadcrumbs.
- Fry until golden and serve with marinara.
Notes
- You can make these ahead and freeze them; just fry directly from frozen.
- For a healthier option, bake at 400°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Use a piping bag for easier filling.
Nutrition
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 70mg